What is the Pastoral Relations Committee?
The Pastoral Relations Committee (PRC) serves to address problems that come before the Committee and to pursue reconciliation of disputes. The committee advocates for the congregation to the Pastoral Staff and advocates for the Pastoral staff to the congregation. Additionally, the committee mediates between members of the congregation. The framework for problem solving and conflict reconciliation shall be based on Matthew 18:15-17:
"If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or tax collector."
"If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over. But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or tax collector."
The Four G's of Biblical Reconciliation
Our approach to resolving conflict may be summarized in four basic principles, "The Four G's."
Glorify God
(1 Cor. 10:31) Biblical peacemaking is motivated and guided by a deep desire to bring honor to God by revealing the reconciling love and power of Jesus Christ. As we draw on his grace, follow his example, and put his teachings into practice, we can find freedom from the impulsive, self-centered decisions that make conflict worse, and bring praise to God by displaying the power of the gospel in our lives.
Get the Log out of Your Eye
(Matt. 7:5) Attacking others only invites counterattacks. This is why Jesus teaches us to face up to our own contributions to a conflict before we focus on what others have done. When we overlook others' minor offenses and honestly admit our own faults, our opponents will often respond in kind. As tensions decrease, the way may be opened for sincere discussion, negotiation, and reconciliation.
Gently Restore
(Gal. 6:1) When others fail to see their contributions to a conflict, we sometimes need to graciously show them their fault. If they refuse to respond appropriately, Jesus calls us to involve respected friends, church leaders, or other objective individuals who can help us encourage repentance and restore peace.
Go and Be Reconciled
(Matt. 5:24) Finally, peacemaking involves a commitment to restoring damaged relationships and negotiating just agreements. When we forgive others as Jesus has forgiven us and seek solutions that satisfy others' interests as well as our own, the debris of conflict is cleared away and the door is opened for genuine peace. and humility. Prepare to continually hear from Him.